Marcus DeVoe

By Wayne E. Rivet

Staff Writer

Marcus DeVoe has worked hard and become one of the best athletes in the school while only a sophomore.

In track & field, he qualified for the State Meet as a freshman — no easy task.

On the basketball court, he’s always been a good player in a good class.

“Marcus has improved quite a bit from last season and has grown a few inches, as well. Marcus is fast, can jump and has good endurance,” Lake Region varsity boys’ basketball coach J.P. Yorkey said. “With his athleticism and daily improvement in technique, Marcus is becoming a valuable defender, especially when we press.”

Marcus handles the ball well and is a good finisher in transition, his coach added.

“Two things that I give him a lot of credit for improving is his shooting mechanics and his attitude. Retraining your body and mind to change your shot is not easy and it takes time. He put the time in and it shows.  It makes him harder to guard because he also has a strong athletic drive,” Coach Yorkey said. “In terms of his attitude, it’s always been good — he’s a great student and citizen, but he used to get down on himself and a little negative at times. This season, he has been nothing but positive and seems to be playing with confidence. He’s had some nice games already. I’m really proud of him. He’s a great addition to our team.”

In recognition of his strong work ethic, determination, commitment and good sportsmanship, Marcus is this week’s Boosters and Hancock Lumber “Player of the Week.”

Each week, a Lake Region athlete is recognized for his/her dedication (does more than what is asked), work ethic, coachability and academic good standing. Recipients receive a specially-designed T-shirt, sponsored by Hancock Lumber.

The DeVoe File

Name: Marcus DeVoe

Year in School: Sophomore

Town: Naples

Parents: Mark and Kathy DeVoe

Sports you play: Football, basketball, track

School organizations: Varsity Club, Class Vice President

Q. Best piece of advice you have received? MD. You can always work harder — Coach Yorkey.

Q. Who is your biggest fan? MD. My biggest fan is my mom. She is always there for me, never misses a game and always cheers me on. She supports me with everything I do!

Q. I know I have had a good sports day when… MD. I know I have had a good sports day when every muscle aches and I have worked myself as hard as I could.

Q. What is your favorite sport? MD. Basketball is my favorite sport because it is the most fun to play. I enjoy the commitment and how hard you have to work to become great at basketball.

Q. If I could change one thing about myself as an athlete, I would change… MD. I would change my speed and conditioning. It would make me a better basketball player.

Q. What qualities make for a good teammate and who do you consider a good teammate? MD. A good teammate pushes other teammates and shows leadership. Jack Lesure and Sam Smith are great teammates. Sam and Jack work hard, are committed to basketball and show great leadership.

Q. What do you believe you bring to your team? MD. I bring hard work and effort. Even if I don’t play well, I’m still trying my hardest. Playing good defense is what I like to bring the most.

Q. What characteristics do you feel make for a good coach? MD. A good coach has good knowledge of the game, works his players hard and is committed to the team and the sport.